Advising Resources

Studying abroad is an exciting, often life–changing, college experience. There’s a lot to think about and we want to help with a few tips for getting started.

Plan well ahead. Many programs require deposits months before departure. Passport and visa applications also take months of lead time. Sometimes incremental immunizations are required.

Consider your goals. Why do you want to study abroad? Are you looking for a specific academic experience, like delving into your academic major from another perspective? Or do you want a cross–cultural experience but require no specific academic focus?

How long do you want to be away? Some of UVM’s faculty–led programs abroad last just two weeks and other programs are a full semester. Or maybe you’re interested in studying abroad for a summer, a semester or a year through a UVM exchange program or one of the several hundred external program offerings.

What foreign language skills will you need? Many faculty–led programs abroad do not require proficiency in another language; a few require proficiency at the intermediate level. Many semester, summer and academic year study abroad programs are taught in English, while some, including several exchange programs, require intermediate level proficiency.

Use your resources. Talk with an advisor here about the semester abroad programs or for faculty–led programs abroad Talk with a study abroad peer advisor or a study abroad professional advisor . For faculty–led programs abroad, review the frequently asked questions information at this page.

Learn about the culture. When possible, learn more about the country you plan to visit by choosing relevant courses that fit within your curriculum.